Navigating PrEP
Providing free guidance through HIV prevention and treatment
PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) is a daily pill used by someone who is HIV negative to prevent them from contracting HIV. PrEP is extremely effective at preventing HIV transmission, whether through sexual contact or sharing of needles. PrEP is FDA approved and multiple research studies have confirmed its effectiveness, showing that it reduces the risk of getting HIV from sex by more than 99% when used consistently.
Radiant Health Centers offers free PrEP guidance to help individuals and partners decide if the medication is right for them. Be safe, comfortable, and confident.
Call 949-809-8764 today to speak to a medical professional. There’s no cost, no stigma, and consultations are always confidential.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PrEP?
PrEP is short for pre-exposure prophylaxis. It is a medication used by individuals who are HIV negative to help prevent contracting HIV.
Who should use PrEP?
Everyone who wants to reduce the risk of contracting HIV, including people who are sexually active or who inject drugs.
High-Risk Population:
- Individuals with multiple sexual partners
- Individuals with HIV+ sexual partner(s)
- Men who have sex with men
- Transgender women
- Gender diverse individuals
- People who inject drugs
- Anyone who is sexually active and wants to prevent HIV contraction
What is the difference between PrEP and PEP?
Post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) is for HIV negative individuals that might have been exposed to the HIV virus. Treatment must be started within 72 hours of the encounter.
How effective is PrEP?
PrEP treatment provides 92-99% reduction in HIV risk for HIV-negative individuals who take the pills every day as directed. If a daily dose is missed, the level of HIV protection may decrease. Prevention is increased with use of condoms.
Are there side effects?
Most people on PrEP report no side effects, but some side effects have been reported including nausea, headaches, weight loss, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue and stomach cramps.
Can I get help paying for PrEP?
Radiant Health Centers offers free PrEP navigation and can help you get PrEP coverage.
If I take PrEP, can I stop using condoms?
We do not recommend stopping the use of condoms. When taken every day, PrEP can provide 99% protection against HIV. Condoms used while taking PrEP lowers your chances of contracting HIV and STD/STIs like Syphilis, Gonorrhea, and Chlamydia.
I’m transgender; will PrEP interfere with my hormone therapy?
There are no known drug conflicts or interactions between the medicines used in PrEP and hormone therapy.
Have more questions? Email us at hsantillana@radianthealthcenters.org or give us a call at 949-809-8764 today to speak to a medical professional. There’s no cost, no stigma, and consultations are always confidential.
